Association Between Physical Activity and Stroke Recurrence: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Stroke recurrence poses a significant health burden.
• Secondary prevention strategies are crucial for stroke survivors.
• The role of physical activity in preventing stroke recurrence requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between physical activity levels and stroke recurrence in survivors.
• To determine if increased physical activity correlates with a reduced risk of recurrent stroke.
• To provide evidence for the role of physical activity in stroke secondary prevention.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive cross-sectional study design.
• Convenience sampling of 75 stroke survivors with recurrence.
• Data collected via sociodemographic questionnaire and International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form (IPAQ-SF).
• Spearman's rho correlation test used for data analysis.

Main Results:

• 84% of participants had ischemic stroke; 92% experienced their first recurrence.
• 46.7% of participants reported mild physical activity levels.
• A significant inverse association was found between physical activity and stroke recurrence (p = .02, r = -0.26).

Conclusions:

• Lack of physical activity is significantly associated with an increased risk of stroke recurrence.
• Physical activity is vital for secondary stroke prevention, improving cardiovascular health.
• Health professionals should encourage regular physical activity for stroke survivors to enhance recovery and reduce recurrence risk.